Facts in Ode on a Grecian Urn

Attic is a historical region of Greece that includes Athens. This line tells the reader where the urn was crafted, but more importantly comes in direct contrast with the tone of the first stanza when the narrator embellished the urn as a bride. Now the urn is nothing more than a “shape,” implying the narrator’s fading amazement with it.

Tempe is a valley in Greece known for pastoral lands of great beauty. Arcady indicates the ancient Greek state of Arcadia. Mentioning Arcadia and Tempe establishes the the old age of the urn as well as brings to mind images of rustic, idealistic beauty.

Evan, Owl Eyes Staff

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